Chronic halitosis, or what we more commonly refer to as bad breath, causes its sufferers significant embarrassment in the short term and damage self-confidence in the long run. The good news for these unfortunate individuals is that this predicament does not have to be a permanent way of life!
Today we’re looking at some common causes of bad breath and, perhaps more importantly, some effective ways to freshen your breath once and for all!
Common Causes of Bad Breath
There are a number of factors that can contribute to bad breath. Some of the most common among these include:
- Poor oral hygiene – Infrequent brushing and flossing lead to the buildup of bacteria in the mouth, resulting in a foul odor.
- Consuming especially odor-inducing foods like garlic and raw onions
- Dry mouth, which can be caused by medication, breathing through the mouth, or poor hydration, allows odor-causing bacteria to multiply
- Smoking or smokeless tobacco products
- Gum disease
What Are Some Effective Treatments for Bad Breath?
It’s important to note that a lasting solution for bad breath involves more than simply popping a mint or chewing some gum. To permanently rid oneself of this issue a person must address its underlying causes. Here are some effective techniques for treating bad breath:
- Improve oral hygiene – Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to remove bacteria.
- Clean your tongue with a tongue scraper or brush to eliminate bacteria that can cause bad breath.
- Drinking plenty of water to combat dry mouth.
- Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candies to stimulate saliva production.
- Eat breath-freshening foods like mint, parsley, and citrus fruits.
- Quit smoking.
- Visit a dentist to treat gum disease, cavities, or infected teeth, all of which can contribute to bad breath.
- Certain medical conditions like sinus infections, respiratory issues, or digestive problems can cause bad breath. If bad breath persists, a trip to the doctor to rule out any of these issues.
Fresh Breath and Bright Smiles in Las Vegas!
If you’re in the Brandon area and want to learn more about how to make sure that both your breath and smile are turning heads in the best way possible, contact dentist Dr. Simon Tsang and the team at Russell Dental to schedule a consultation